Hundreds Celebrate Active Ageing at Live Longer Better Celebration Day

In September, the University of Hertfordshire and Hertfordshire Sports Village hosted a major event, the 2026 Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire Celebration Day, with 470 older adults, dignitaries, professionals, volunteers, and health organisations taking part. The event was organised and overseen by Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership (HSP), with generous funding from Hertfordshire County Council’s Adult Care Services. 
 
The landmark event aimed to empower residents to lead healthier, happier, and more independent lives by leveraging physical activity to reshape perceptions of ageing. A key moment was a keynote by "fitfluencer" Christine Hobson, who has over 200,000 followers and holds a Guinness World Record as the oldest woman to complete the Antarctic Ice Marathon. Her inspiring story showed that it's never too late to adopt a healthier, more active lifestyle. Once a headteacher, Christine transformed her health after retirement by engaging in strength training and pursuing new challenges. In her opening speech, she explained how building strength later in life has helped her stay independent and confident, motivating others to explore their own potential for positive change. The recording of her talk is available for those who wish to revisit her inspiring message. 

Reflecting on the day, Christine said: 

“Hertfordshire Live Longer Better Celebration Day was unbelievably good. The welcome I received from staff was first class. They looked after me and included me in everything throughout the day. After my session on stage, I spent time soaking up the atmosphere, meeting attendees and trying out some of the activities. I was impressed by both the number and variety of activities on offer, thanks to all the team for putting on such a wonderful event. I will be spreading the word about this in my own local authorities, as I think they will be inspired by the scale and success of the day.” 

During the event, attendees could enjoy a wide array of activities, including adapted cycling, judo for safer falling, walking tennis, zumba gold, pickleball, archery, and various dance classes - all designed to inspire everyone. 

One of the newest additions to the programme was indoor climbing at the Hertfordshire Sports Village climbing wall. The activity proved particularly popular, with one participant sharing: 

“My highlight was the indoor climbing wall, which I reached the top of on my second attempt. Not bad considering I am 81 years old and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in late 2021. I was so pleased to reach the top. I just want to thank everyone for organising such a fantastic day. It was so useful and very enjoyable.” 

Alongside the activities, a vibrant health and wellbeing marketplace offered expert guidance, support and practical information to help attendees take positive steps towards ageing well. One participating organisation commented: 

“We appreciated the opportunity to network with other stallholders, making new connections while strengthening existing partnerships so that we can continue working together for the wellbeing of Hertfordshire’s residents. It was a fantastic day and an event that we would wholeheartedly recommend to any of our clients.” 

A key highlight of the celebration was honouring the Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire Champions. These committed individuals completed an online course that gave them the skills and confidence to advocate for active ageing, further social inclusion, and motivate communities to view later life positively. 

Each Champion brings unique experiences, skills and passion to the movement, helping to embed the Live Longer Better ethos across Hertfordshire. Their inspiring stories and contributions can be explored further in the programme’s Champions video. 

The Celebration Day was more than just a display of activities; it acted as a strong catalyst for positive change. It motivated residents, professionals, and volunteers to actively improve health, wellbeing, and independence in later years. Most importantly, the event proved that ageing well is attainable and is reinforced by the supportive, connected, and lively communities that flourish throughout Hertfordshire. 
 
Relive moments from the day at the Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire online image library.  

Photographs courtesy of Helen Olgeby 
Videography courtesy of AJL Media Productions Ltd